Eryngium variifolium

Eryngium variifolium is a perennial characterised by its evergreen dark green foliage with prominent white veins. Its spiny, mauve-blue inflorescences are carried by erect, stiff and ramified silver-blue stems during the summer months. This variegated sea holly, which will not exceed 40 cm (16in) in height, has flowers grouped in heads with a diameter of 2.5 cm (1in), surrounded by silver-blue bracts forming large stars between June and August.  The spiny margins of the coloured bracts, surrounding the central flower, resemble thistles and are the origin of its other common name, ornamental thistle.

From picturesque to contemporary scenes, its colours range from green to silver mixed with the blue of the flowers, and its graphic design allow it to blend into many situations. Ideally planted in full sun, the variegated sea holly loves heat and drought, and adapts to all sunny, well-drained and deep soils with a tendency towards limestone; it even withstands coastal areas. It dislikes wet soil, especially in winter. To prolong its decorative effect beyond the summer outdoors, you can easily make dried bouquets as it retains its beautiful colours when drying.

Eryngium variifolium works well in a rock garden, border, wild or contemporary garden alongside Gauras, Mulleins (Verbascums), Sages (Salvias or Perovskias), or some Stipas.